Fingerprint-based Background Check Begins August 6, 2014

Fingerprint-based background checks will be required for all individuals with a 5 percent or greater ownership interest in a provider or supplier that falls into the high risk category and is currently enrolled in Medicare or has submitted an initial enrollment application. The fingerprint-based background requirement was implemented on August 6, 2014, and will be conducted in phases. Providers or suppliers will receive notification of the fingerprint requirements from their MAC. The relevant individuals will have 30 days from the date of the letter to be fingerprinted and should contact Accurate Biometrics prior to being fingerprinted to ensure the fingerprint results are accurately submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and properly returned to CMS. If fingerprints are required, the MAC will not begin processing the application until the fingerprint-based background check has been completed and the results are received. The effective date of enrollment will be determined by the date the fingerprint results are received.